Captain Bob Kuppers, USN (Ret.) delivered the keynote address at Macon County’s Memorial Day ceremony. He stressed the importance of “honoring those members of the armed forces who, in the words of Abraham Lincoln ‘gave their lives that the nation might live.’

“It is a time to reflect and remember,” he said. “The reason the holiday was created so that brave Americans who unselfishly sacrificed themselves for our way of life would never be forgotten. We should stop and remember; we must remind ourselves to pause and solemnly reflect on the sacrifices made by so many on our behalf.”

Kuppers also suggested that perhaps the best way to honor those who gave all, is for Americans to begin to use their time and talents to make our community, state and nation better.

“It’s time to stop whining and start working, to create a future that truly honors our fallen veterans. In so doing, pay the greatest of tributes to those who have gone before us,” he concluded.

The ceremony included the entrance of colors, the pledge of allegiance, the reading of “In Flanders Field,” a wreath presentation, a rifle volley and taps. Men Macon Music provided the musical accompaniment.

Promptly at noon, a U.S. flag that had flown at Arlington was raised to full mast as the National Anthem was performed.

Following the ceremony, the American Legion Post 108 provided a complimentary barbecue lunch for all who wished to partake.